Carlisle United apologise after abuse suffered by opposition goalkeeper

Port Vale's Connor Ripley was targeted during Monday's match

Author: Matt MaddrenPublished 3rd Jan 2024

Carlisle United's apologised to Port Vale's keeper Connor Ripley after he received abuse during the game on Monday.

In a statement, the club says it's totally unacceptable and the comments cause 'embarrassment and shame'.

They're working with the police to find who was responsible and say they will act in the strongest possible manner when they're identified.

Ripley has posted online to thank the club and everyone for their support.

Carlisle's CEO Nigel Clibbens said:

“I was made aware of this tonight (Tuesday). I asked Paul Simpson to get me Connor’s number so I could speak to him straight away.

"I spoke to him earlier tonight and apologised personally on behalf of the club.

"He was very understandably still angry and upset. No player deserves that abuse and we are truly sorry he suffered it.

"He was able to give information about the incident and it was clearly prolonged abuse. I said that we do not tolerate this and will do our best to deal with it.

"We will do all we can to identify the culprit and take the strongest action we can. Fans close by will know who it was and I hope they will help as they have done in the past, by giving information.

"Everyone knows the Warwick Road End has seen really positive developments in terms of atmosphere but it continues to see regular incidents of disorder and now abuse. It’s extraordinarily disappointing.

"We appeal to fans to stop and behave. This cannot go on."

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.